Compared to Bangkok, Chiang Mai has a subdued nightlife, still enjoyable. The locals join the tourists to party away the night at the numerous discos, bars and karaoke lounges. A street cramped with go-go bars adds to the fun. Thailand culture accepts gays and lesbians.

Pub-crawling is very much enjoyable here as the city center can be covered on foot in less than half an hour. Some bars have live music with the singers entertaining the crowds with blues, soul, pop music and Thai hits. There are discos with excellent DJs adding to the excitement.

The city bars are located mostly on both sides of Moat’s east end near the Tapae Gate, on the banks of River Ping near Nawarat Brideg or close to the Night Bazaar. Different bars have varying atmospheres ranging from very loud to sober.

In the Night Bazaar area, the night is lively due to the presence of the bazaar. Late-night shoppers throng the place and the numerous eateries in the area attract more crowds. The Galare Center located next to the bazaar, present Thai cultural programs. Here you can eat food while watching the programs, which is free. At the crossroad of Chang Klan and Loi Kroh road, there are many bars, restaurants and coffeehouses. Further north on the Chang Klan Road there is an arcade famous for its ‘Peak Climbing Wall’. There are many bars here, some even offering ‘company’.

Karaoke is very popular in Thailand and karaoke lounges are seen all over the city. Many have young svelte hostesses to attract male clients. They will spend time with clients and sing along for a small hourly fee. These are mostly found in Chiang Mai Land, off Chang Klan Road on the south side of the city.

The go-go bars are found in plenty in Chiang Mai like in other parts of Thailand. They are found at the west end of Loi Kroh Road and south end of Moon Muang Road. The arcade near Imperial Mae Ping Hotel has many go-go bars. In Chiang Mai, these bars are queter than those in the Bangkok city.

For cinemagoers, there are multiplexes at Kad Suan Kaew mall (also known as Central) and Airport Plaza, showing latest English movies. The Central also has a bowling alley, go karting track, mini golf and an ice skating rink. The Irish Pub here has Thursday night quizzes for the competitive-minded.

Due to the Governor’s orders, Chiang Mai has a curtailed nightlife. Only a few places are allowed to remain open till 2am.